“The Past Is Still Alive” is the latest release from Roots/Americana artist Hurray for the Riff Raff (led by Alynda Segarra, who identifies as nonbinary). Following their highly rated 2022 album “Life on Earth,” Segarra began working on “The Past Is Still Alive” in March 2023, just one month after their father’s death. You can feel it throughout the album—it is personal but never weighty. Its production, led by Brad Cook, effectively supports all of the song’s narratives without overshadowing them.

It opens with the lovely, jingly Alibi, which starts with the lyric: “You don’t have to die if you don’t wanna die. You can take it all back in the nick of time. Maybe even be a good friend of mine.” 

In the line “I love you very much, and all that other stuff,” Segarra sweetly sings to a drug-addicted friend. They then finish singing, “Cause you don’t have to die if you don’t wanna die. Maybe I got something left that is worth a try. But I’m not gonna be your Alibi. This time.” Nope, they’ve tried…

Buffalo is an emotionally charged journey. It showcases a stripped-down arrangement that allows the poignancy of the lyrics to shine through—just really acoustic guitar and percussion. Segarra’s vocals are a standout element—both haunting and clear. They convey a sense of longing and introspection that is deeply moving. Wanting to move forward into a new love without repeating past mistakes.

Lyrically, the song likely continues Segarra’s exploration of identity, belonging, and resilience (“This year tried to kill us, baby. Well, good luck trying, you can’t catch me”). Segarra’s ability to connect personal narratives to broader social and historical contexts enriches the listening experience, making it enjoyable and thought-provoking.

Hawkmoon reflects on the life and impact of Miss Jonathan, the first trans woman Segarra ever met. This song captures themes of loss, resilience, and the ongoing fight for equality​. “I couldn’t believe them when they’d say, “Watch out” I’m becoming the kind of girl that they warned me about.“

Similarly, Snake Plant (The Past Is Still Alive) delves into memories of challenging experiences and the struggle to overcome them. The songwriting is highlighted as particularly strong, carrying a poignant emotional weight that is both reflective and forward-looking.

“The Past Is Still Alive” is a return to Segarra’s early folk roots, somewhat combined with the electric energy of rock. The music is complemented by powerful lyrical content that ranges from confessional to socially conscious, making it a complex tapestry of human emotions and experiences.

For instance, written in the aftermath of the tragic 2022 Club Q shooting in Colorado Springs, the song addresses themes of loss, solidarity, and the struggles faced by marginalized communities. Segarra uses the song to stand in unity with the queer community and all outsiders, expressing a profound sense of grief and a desire for a better future​. “I was young when I left home. I never stopped running. Used to think I was alone. But nothing will stop me now.”

The World is Dangerous (maybe my favorite track on the album) features guest vocals from Conor Oberst from Bright Eyes, adding depth to the album’s narrative​… “Your dreams are not dreams. They’re only visions of what you need. You’re not the person you thought you’d be.”

Hourglass is a lovely ballad and one of the most autobiographical songs here. The lines “I always felt like a dirty kid, I used to eat out of the garbage” feel particularly powerful if you know Segarra’s personal history.

One of the most powerful moments comes in the song Ogallala, where Segarra melds their reflections on past and present challenges with lush musical arrangements, including pedal steel and choruses that add to the song’s emotional weight. At the end of Ogallala, we hear a voicemail recording of Segarra’s Dad’s voice, though it’s a happy memory rather than a sad one. It is still breathtaking.

Overall, “The Past Is Still Alive” is a significant release from Hurray for the Riff Raff.

It combines musical simplicity with complex, heartfelt storytelling to create a compelling listening experience. Within its 36 minutes, “The Past is Still Alive” offers a captivating listen that balances the heaviness of its themes with musical upliftment. Highly recommended.

8.5/10

Chris Garrod, June 15, 2024